The Entrepreneurial Leadership Institute’s purpose is to develop future business leaders and entrepreneurs in Southern and Eastern Kentucky.  High school freshmen, sophomores and juniors from throughout The Center’s 45-county service area are encouraged to apply.  The program is an intensive, weeklong program focused on developing creativity, teamwork, business and leadership skills.  The Institute is developed, coordinated and supervised by The Center for Rural Development and is held at The Center’s facility in Somerset, Kentucky. All lodging, meals, and program expenses (with the exception of transportation to and from the program) are offered at no cost.

Activities during the week are both educational and fun.  Participants will be divided into teams.  The weeklong institute includes classroom instruction, guest speakers, competitions and tours of local businesses.  The concluding event will be a team business concept competition and the chance to compete for college scholarships.